Has the Regulatory Compliance Burden Reduced Competitiveness of the U.S. Tilapia Industry?

Emerging research on aquaculture governance has pointed to the conundrum of negative global environmental effects from economic incentives for production shift more highly regulated less countries. This study focused examining whether regulatory costs U.S. tilapia farms may have contributed their contraction in contrast growth that contributes volume seafood imports into A national survey (coverage rate = 75% sold; response 18%) found on-farm accounted 15% total farms, fifth-highest cost production. The direct nationally were $4.4 million, averaging $137,611/farm. Most problematic regulations effluent discharge, predatory bird control, international export, and water energy policies. Manpower monitoring reporting greatest compliance. lost sales revenue resulting was $32 million a year, or 82% annual sales, indicating framework constrained farming. smallest had per kg. provides evidence costs, along with other challenges related live fish markets, decline Increased competitiveness industry will require combination of: (1) improved efficiency reduces burdens without reducing societal benefits; (2) extension assistance evaluate new fillet equipment; (3) changing consumer preferences provide guidance effective strategies penetrate large market.